What Dogs Want

This!! Reposted from Floof | Kapil Patwardhan

Great post and information from

・・・
Border Collies are one of the most common purebred dogs you’ll see in shelters.

There are rescues that exist almost just for them.

That should make people stop and think.

We love to say they’re the smartest breed. That they can learn hundreds of words. That they “understand everything.” And yes, they are incredibly clever.

But that cleverness comes with something most people aren’t prepared for.

A Border Collie was bred to move stock. To watch movement all day and control it. That doesn’t switch off because you live in a city or work a 9–5.

If they don’t have something appropriate to herd, they will find something.

Cars.
Joggers.
Kids on scooters.
Other dogs.

What gets called “reactive” or “too much” is often just a dog doing what it was bred to do, in the wrong setting.

So puppies grow up misunderstood. Adults get labeled difficult. They get passed from home to home. Many end up in shelters. Some get adopted out, but nothing really changes because no one has explained what is actually driving them.

And the pattern repeats.

If people understood herding instinct as well as they understand the word “intelligence,” fewer Border Collies would end up in the wrong homes. Because this breed is not about more walks or running them tired. You cannot exercise instinct away.

You have to give it somewhere to go.

If you are not willing to learn how to work with that instinct properly, especially in a city, this breed will feel overwhelming very quickly.

This is not meant to be dramatic. It is just the truth.

Do not get a Border Collie just because you heard they are smart.

Get one only if you are ready to live with what they were bred to do.

Check out our newest blog post, discussing the dangers of falling in love with a dog for their looks without knowing what to expect! Link in bio ✍️➡️

We’re so excited to announce that we’ve been able to get the blog back up and running!

This is something we’ve been really wanting to put time and effort into, providing insight and education about important issues facing the dog world- as well as resources and things you can do to help.

We hope to release blogs on a weekly basis, so check out the link in our bio for the first one!

By now, you’ve all probably heard the news… so it’s time to officially share:
The move across the pond is happening! 🐾🇬🇧

This summer, What Dogs Want Academy will be relocating from the United States to the United Kingdom.

We’re incredibly excited for this next chapter and for the opportunity to bring enrichment, problem-solving, confidence-building, and thoughtful learning opportunities to the dogs of England.

At the same time, this is a bittersweet announcement.

To our current and past clients here in the US, thank you. Truly.
It has been such a privilege to be part of your dogs’ journeys over the years. Watching your dogs grow confidence, learn how to navigate new challenges, discover their problem-solving abilities and celebrate all the little wins along the way has meant to much to us.

We’ve built so many wonderful relationships and made memories we will always carry with us.

If you’re a current client, please don’t panic. We will continue sending email updates as plans come into their final stages so you’ll know exactly what is going on.

And of course, if you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re always happy to chat!

Thank you for being a part of this journey and for trusting us with your dogs. We’re so excited for what’s ahead, and so grateful for everything that’s brought us here. ❤️❤️❤️